First Reading: Wisdom 8:9-16

⁹ Therefore I determined to take her to live with me, knowing that she would give me good counsel and encouragement in cares and grief.
¹⁰ Because of her I shall have glory among the multitudes and honor in the presence of the elders, though I am young.
¹¹ I shall be found keen in judgment, and in the sight of rulers I shall be admired.
¹² When I am silent they will wait for me, and when I speak they will give heed; and when I speak at greater length they will put their hands on their mouths.
¹³ Because of her I shall have immortality, and leave an everlasting remembrance to those who come after me.
¹⁴ I shall govern peoples, and nations will be subject to me;
¹⁵ dread monarchs will be afraid of me when they hear of me; among the people I shall show myself capable, and courageous in war.
¹⁶ When I enter my house, I shall find rest with her, for companionship with her has no bitterness, and life with her has no pain, but gladness and joy.